Mommy Has to Work

Why Say YES to Moving Abroad with Kids

April 21, 2024 By Anne Leave a Comment

Most people here are families moving abroad and immediately they’re either in awe of them for doing so, or they think they’re crazy for bringing kids abroad with them to live. The thing is, moving abroad with children doesn’t have to be some huge deal. We live in a very big wide world, so why not allow the kids to experience something different?

As they are going through their formative years, do you have any idea how many amazing choices for International School there are? Do you have any idea of the experience you’ll be giving your children by allowing them to live in countries that they wouldn’t have been born in? It can be very difficult for some families to choose to move abroad because they are attached to their roots. But roots are there for a reason and you can always go back home again. One of the biggest things that you can consider for your children is to move abroad, and taking the plunge to do that is a big decision to make. So we’ve put together a list of reasons why you should say yes to living abroad with kids.

Image source: Pexels

You are creating adventurous memories. If you’ve never gone to another country to live there, you’re going to have an experience of your own. But seeing it through the adventurous eyes of your children is something completely new. Let’s say you decide to move to New York. Imagine seeing the Empire State Building through the eyes of a 7 year old. Well, that’s what you’d be doing if you decided to do that with your children, because you’re going to witness the majesty on their faces when they see giant buildings and crowded streets and taxis that are bright yellow.
You get to try new things. How often is it you get to go skiing in France, or you get to catch a glimpse of waterfalls in Rupit? Or riding a frightening cable car to the top of Montserrat mountain? These are just some of the experiences that would scare an adult to death, but there would be a thrilling one for a child. You have to remember what you’re getting. Try new things with your children and you can experience these memories together as a family and they’ve become something of family lore.
You get to meet other expats. Wherever you go, there is going to be a range of people who have done the same thing you have. Perhaps some of those people have inspired you to move abroad in the first place. Getting out of your comfort zone and living in another country with another culture is going to be a big change, but you’re going to get to meet new people who have done the same thing you have and you can create links in that sense.
Your children can be your best teachers. If your children are the ones that prompt you into adventure, then why wouldn’t you want to move them abroad and have even more? Children could teach us that the world could be seen in a new light.

Anne

I'm a mother of 2 who likes to get involved in too much! Besides writing here I started a non-profit, I'm on the PTO board, very active in my community and volunteer in the school. I enjoy music, reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with my family. We just adopted our 3rd cat and love them all!

How Working Moms Can Be Stronger and Healthier

March 25, 2024 By Anne Leave a Comment

Finding time to do anything for yourself often seems impossible when you’re a working mother. You have to dedicate huge chunks of your time to both work and family, so it can feel like there’s nothing left for yourself. But staying healthy is something that you not only can fit into your schedule, but should. Some evidence actually suggests that working moms may be healthier than stay-at-home moms. With good structure to your day, it could actually be easier than you think to make time for getting fit and healthy. Try these tips if you want to be stronger and healthier.

Involve Your Kids in Exercise

It doesn’t work for everyone, but one of the best ways to be a healthier, fitter parent is to involve your kids in exercise. Not only does it make it a bit easier to fit exercise into your schedule, but it can set a great example for your little ones too. They see the importance of keeping fit, and they can even have fun joining in. You can consider everything from mommy and me exercise classes to family activities like going for a walk or bike ride together. However, some moms do prefer to get that time for themselves.

Image from Pexels – CC0 License

Add Weights to Your Workouts

It’s often difficult not to look at lifting weights as something men do. Many women prefer to spend their time in the gym doing cardio or perhaps attending a class. But weights are a fantastic addition to your workout routine. As well as helping you get stronger, they can be good for cardio, weight management, and more. Some people choose to explore SARMS research materials and their potential benefits to give their muscle building even more of a boost too. You might be surprised by the strength you already have, especially after you’ve spent time carrying your kids around.

Move in Whatever Way Works for You

Everyone is different, with different amounts of time and energy. We all enjoy varying things too, so what one woman likes another might view as akin to torture. The most important thing to do is move in a way that works for you. Find something that you can do consistently and that you can fit into your schedule. If it’s something you don’t like or struggle to make time for, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to keep it up. Maybe your form of exercise is taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Don’t Aim for Perfection

One of the biggest mistakes you could make is aiming for perfection. If you want to do everything perfectly, you’re probably going to give up pretty quickly. That includes trying to start lots of new things at once or setting unrealistic goals. It’s always best to start small and avoid holding yourself to impossible standards. Of course, it’s good to set goals and strive for more, but don’t beat yourself up if you can’t be Superwoman.

Being a working mom shouldn’t stop you from being healthy. You can be stronger and healthier if you’re committed.

Anne

How to Travel Without Being Broke

March 11, 2024 By Anne Leave a Comment

Traveling is one of the most enriching experiences, offering us the chance to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. However, the excitement of planning a trip often comes with the worry of financial strain. The good news is that with the right strategies, it’s possible to embark on memorable adventures without depleting your savings or resorting to a 5000 loan. This guide will explore practical tips on budgeting, choosing destinations, finding deals, and managing expenses, enabling you to travel smart and economically.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Creating a budget is the cornerstone of financially savvy travel. Start by establishing a clear picture of your expenses, distinguishing between fixed costs (like airfare and accommodation) and variable costs (such as dining, entertainment, and shopping). Research your destination to estimate daily expenses and allocate funds accordingly.

Next, set up a dedicated travel savings account and contribute to it regularly. Even small, consistent savings can add up over time, reducing the need for last-minute financial solutions. Tools and apps can help track your savings progress and keep you motivated. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your trip without financial worries looming over your return.

Choosing Cost-Effective Destinations

The choice of destination significantly impacts the cost of your trip. Opt for places known for their value for money, where your currency stretches further. Countries with lower costs of living offer the same sense of adventure and discovery at a fraction of the price. Consider traveling during the shoulder season—the period between peak and off-peak seasons—when prices are lower, and tourist spots are less crowded.

Exploring less popular destinations can also lead to significant savings and unique experiences. These hidden gems often offer authentic cultural experiences away from the commercialized tourist trails.

Finding Deals and Discounts

A key strategy in economical travel is to actively seek out deals and discounts. Sign up for newsletters and follow travel blogs and websites that alert you to promotions, last-minute deals, and error fares. Utilizing travel comparison websites can help you find the best prices for flights, accommodation, and rental cars.

Loyalty programs and travel credit cards offer rewards that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel expenses. Be strategic about accumulating and using these points to maximize their value. Additionally, consider alternative accommodations like hostels, vacation rentals, or home exchanges to save on lodging costs.

Managing Daily Expenses While Traveling

Once at your destination, smart management of daily expenses can make a big difference. Opt for local eateries and street food over tourist-focused restaurants to enjoy authentic cuisine at a lower cost. Public transportation and walking are not only economical but also allow you to experience the destination more intimately.

Prioritize your spending by focusing on experiences that are most important to you. Many destinations offer free or low-cost attractions, such as museums with free admission days, public parks, and historic sites. Being discerning with your expenses means you can splurge on a few memorable activities without overspending.

Conclusion

Traveling without going broke is entirely achievable with thoughtful planning, budget management, and strategic choices. By setting a realistic budget, choosing destinations wisely, hunting for deals, and being mindful of daily expenses, you can explore the world without financial stress. Remember, the essence of travel is not in lavish spending but in the richness of experiences and memories created. With these guidelines, you can embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing that financial security and unforgettable experiences can go hand in hand

Anne

Eco-Friendly Explorers: Instilling Forest Awareness in Children

February 21, 2024 By Anne Leave a Comment

Forests are a big part of what makes Oregon such a special place. Quite literally, as forests cover almost half of our state, having access to the many beautiful Oregon forests provides wonderful opportunities for residents of all ages. Especially for children who are learning about the world. This education has countless benefits for kids of all ages and the state of Oregon as well.

The forests will continue to thrive if we impart their importance to future generations. So, if you’re passionate about this subject and want to pass that love down but aren’t sure where to start, read on for some helpful tips and resources.

Who Is Qualified to Teach Forest Awareness?

You don’t need to be an expert in Oregon’s forests to instill awareness in children. But whether you’re a schoolteacher, camp counselor or passionate parent, your lessons should be based on what the experts say. It’s important to have the facts straight and to know the research you’re passing on is up to date.

Gone are the days of having to scour through a library or endlessly Google to have expert resources on hand. The Oregon Forests Research Institute makes it easier. The institute has an online Learn Forests resource, which includes guides for forest education and awareness. This also includes guides for parents to teach their kids about forest awareness at home.

Know Your Audience

When you teach any subject, you want the students to be engaged. Especially when you’re teaching important topics like wildfire prevention.

Of course, there are a lot of differences between age groups. The ways you keep elementary-school-aged children interested probably won’t work for high school students. Thankfully, the Learn Forests resources provide materials from kindergarten up to the senior year of high school.

Students in kindergarten through second grade will benefit from learning the essentials about forests. This includes learning about the different animals that live in Oregon’s forests.

Kids in third through fifth grade will need more advanced material than early readers in younger grades. At this stage, reading materials can include graphs and stories about how forests bring many benefits to Oregon.

The materials naturally get more complex once kids are in middle school and high school. For high school students who are especially interested, you could teach a more robust curriculum that even includes labs.

Ensure Safety

One of the essentials of forest awareness is safety. Ensure you instill safety measures and set boundaries and ground rules. Especially if you are teaching your lessons in the natural classrooms of the forests. Here are a few examples of how you can stay safe in any forest:

Make sure you stay off of any unofficial trails. This keeps kids safe from poisonous plants and unsafe terrain, while also keeping the trees safe from human damage.
Pack a first-aid kit no matter how brief your trip into the woods. While Oregon’s forests are a beautiful place to visit, emergencies can happen.
Know what to do if you get lost. Have a game plan with your group of where you will meet or how to get in contact.
Plan your forest lesson during the daylight to better avoid slips and falls or getting lost. Take precautions around waterfalls and caves.

These are just a few ways to stay safe in the forest. Don’t forget to get the kids involved in your safety preparations to help them be more aware of forest safety too.

Choose the Most Enriching Activities

There’s a lot of important information about forests that the kids should know. But it won’t get through to them if you try to instill awareness solely through lectures. Your lessons can include demonstrations, field trips, videos, experiments and more. Again, you will tailor specific activities depending on age group.

With the youngest children, especially early readers, you don’t want to overwhelm them. Instead, they can start to learn through coloring books, sticker sheets, activity sheets and books that can be read aloud at storytime.

High school students are more likely to want to learn how they can turn their passion for trees into a career in a field like forest management. There are hundreds of jobs in the forestry industry. In an area like Oregon especially, this field is ever-growing and presents endless opportunities. Those who are seriously interested in a forestry career will want to hear from and ask questions of real people who work in that field.

Teach Kids to Keep Forests Healthy

An important part of your lessons will be the health of the trees. You don’t have to be a professional arborist to tell when a tree has seen better days.

As part of a lesson in forest management, teach kids how they can make a difference and keep the trees healthy. Knowing how to monitor a tree’s health and the signs something is wrong, will already be a big step forward. Some tips to monitor a tree’s health include:

Understanding how to spot crown dieback, invasive species and the different kinds of infections or infestations.
Explain how figuring out the cause of the damage can save the other trees in a forest.
Monitor the tree’s roots for damage.

Likewise, it is important to instill kids with the knowledge of preventing further damage to trees. Emphasize the importance of being delicate to exposed tree roots. Once they know how the roots are crucial for a tree’s nourishment, they’ll know to avoid causing any damage or scratches. That’s another reason why, in addition to ensuring everyone stays together, the kids must stay off undesignated hiking paths in the forests.

Encourage Kids to Plant More Trees

In addition to learning about existing trees, kids who are passionate about forests thriving are more likely to be interested in planting new trees. When doing this, make kids understand the nuances. lessons should include how different trees require different environments and have different needs for growth. This ensures that they’ll be more aware of what conditions specific species need to thrive.

How to Talk About Wildfires

Unfortunately, kids these days are more familiar with wildfires than generations before them. Although talking about wildfires might be a difficult topic of conversation, avoiding the topic could have future negative impacts. Lessons should instill information about fire suppression and efforts to prevent wildfires when going into any forest. Emphasize how important proper forest management is when it comes to these efforts.

A child’s forest awareness doesn’t end with your lessons. These lessons just might inspire them to seek out even more knowledge and they may even dedicate time and energy to caring for Oregon’s forests as they grow older. There are plenty of helpful resources for every stage of forest awareness. One way the kids can get more involved is by joining the Oregon Forests Forever campaign and browsing its website.

Anne

The Juggling Act of Multigenerational Living

February 16, 2024 By Anne Leave a Comment

Buckle up, buttercup, and dive headfirst into the chuckle-fest that is multigenerational living! It’s like being stuck in an unaired TV show where the cast is your family, the script is made up on the fly, and every day’s antics are worthy of an Emmy. Forget the straight and narrow; life’s a wild ride concocted by your lovably eccentric clan, with more twists and turns than a whodunit written by a gang of jesters on a sugar high.

Via Pixabay

Mixing Masterclass: The Family Edition

Imagine, if you will, a bold soul attempting the unthinkable: marrying a dignified, aged whiskey with a zesty, neon-blue energy drink. Sounds like a recipe for a night to remember or a morning to forget, right? That’s just a regular Tuesday in the multi-gen household, where merging sage wisdom with youthful exuberance is the name of the game. Think of yourself as the world’s most ambitious mixologist, serving up generational cocktails at a time-traveling soiree!

Breakfast Buffet: The Ultimate Challenge

As the sun peeks over the horizon, the kitchen turns into a battlefield, reminiscent of a culinary game show where the grand prize is satisfying a motley crew of taste buds and dietary needs before the clock strikes breakfast o’clock. From sugary-cereal aficionados to fiber-worshiping elders, whipping up the morning feast is like competing in the breakfast Olympics with a ticking timer.

Emotion Commotion: The Family Funhouse

Strap in for the rollercoaster that is family feels, where the peaks of joy are sky-high, and the drops into drama are lightning-fast. One minute, granny and the teen might be giggling over their shared tech troubles, and the next, World War III, breaks out over the TV remote. It’s a whirlwind of chuckles, sniffles, and the odd “what’s it all about?” moment, all blended into one delightful chaos.

Work-Life Circus: The Juggling Act

Trying to balance professional duties with family shenanigans is like walking a tightrope in a tornado. Picture this: you’re trying to ooze professionalism in a Zoom call while, in the background, someone’s belting out a ballad about the baffling internet router. It’s a madcap dance of mute buttons and desperate signs, where every day is an audition for the “Keeping It Together Champion” award.

Guilt Trips Galore: The Emotional Rollercoaster

Sailing the seas of family duties and personal dreams is like navigating an ocean with a map sketched in lemon juice. The guilt trips are complimentary, adding an extra layer of emotional acrobatics as you strive to distribute your time and affection evenly. It’s an adventure where every stumble is a learning curve, and every triumph is a saga-worthy milestone.

Midnight Snack Skirmish

Just when you think the house has settled for the night, the kitchen turns into the arena for the ultimate secret snack showdown. Amidst the hush, a lone figure’s quest for a humble PB&J becomes an epic saga, entangled with a ceremonial tea brewing and a countdown to pizza. These nocturnal nibbles add that extra zest to the family sitcom, proving it’s the medley of characters that conjures up the real magic.

Casting Call: The Caregiver Chronicles

Thinking of introducing a professional caregiver into the mix? 24-hour in-home care can bring you, and the grandparents some good peace of mind, especially if you’re trying to juggle work, family, and, well, life. It’s like holding tryouts for a new character on your family’s sitcom. They’ve gotta have the skills, for sure, but they also need to vibe with the current cast. Brace yourself for a slew of quirky “audition tapes” as you search for the perfect addition.

Grand Finale: Hug the Mayhem

At the close of the day, transforming your abode into a multi-gen sanctuary is akin to directing and starring in your personal reality extravaganza. Sure, you’ll hit sitcom gold now and then, like when Grandpa mistakes the printer for a futuristic cooking gadget, but it’s these snippets that make the whole shebang priceless. Treasure this moment cause we don’t have many of them in life

Encore! Keeping the Laughter Alive

To all you daring adventurers already knee-deep in this wild journey, remember: a juggling mishap here and there only adds to the intrigue and the giggles. What’s a top-notch show without a dash of suspense and a heap of heart, after all? So take your well-deserved bow, keep those juggling balls airborne, and never forget, in the wacky circus of multigenerational living, it’s the love and laughter that are your true safety nets. Who knows, you might just snag a standing ovation from the toughest crowd around—your very own family!